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Red wine | Rioja, Spain
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Ah, the Bodegas Lan Gran Reserva 1987! A venerable testament to the art of winemaking in the Rioja region. Imagine stepping back in time, to a year when Bon Jovi's 'Livin' on a Prayer' topped the charts and Ronald Reagan was still in office. This wine is a sip of that history.
Bodegas Lan, nestled in the heart of Rioja, is a winery steeped in tradition, and this Gran Reserva exemplifies their dedication to quality. The 'LAN' in the name stands for Logroño, Álava, and Navarra, the three provinces that make up the Rioja D.O.Ca., a blend of terroirs that create a wine of remarkable complexity.
Crafted primarily from Tempranillo grapes, the king of Rioja varietals, with potentially a small percentage of other traditional Rioja grapes, this wine spent years aging in oak barrels, followed by extended bottle aging. This patient process has resulted in a wine with a deep, garnet color, hinting at its maturity and depth.
On the nose, expect a symphony of aromas that evolve with each swirl of the glass. The initial burst of ripe, red fruit gives way to more nuanced notes of dried cherries, plums, and figs. The oak aging lends a delicate vanilla spice, with hints of cedar and leather adding to the complexity. There's an earthy quality too, reminiscent of the Rioja soil that nurtured the vines.
On the palate, the 1987 Gran Reserva is dry and full-bodied, with velvety tannins that have softened beautifully with age. The fruit flavors are concentrated and balanced by a refreshing acidity, leading to a long, satisfying finish. Expect flavours of cherry and oak.
This is a wine that deserves to be savored. Decant it an hour before serving to allow the aromas to fully develop. Serve it at a temperature of 18°C to best appreciate its complexities.
As for food pairings, this wine is incredibly versatile. It's a natural match for roasted lamb, grilled steak, or aged cheeses. It also complements hearty stews, game meats, and traditional Spanish dishes like paella or tapas. In fact, enjoy it with almost anything, but preferably with good company and lively conversation.
While it may be difficult to find a bottle in perfect condition, should you stumble upon a bottle of Bodegas Lan Gran Reserva 1987, it's an opportunity to experience a piece of Rioja's vinicultural heritage and a moment in time.